Frequently Asked Questions
Air Conditioning Repair Services FAQs
1. What are the most common signs that my AC needs repair in Houston?
Common warning signs include weak airflow from vents, warm air blowing instead of cold, unusual noises like grinding or squealing, water leaks around the unit, and higher-than-normal energy bills. In Houston’s extreme heat, if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to call 75 Degree AC immediately to prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs.
2. How quickly can 75 Degree AC respond to an AC repair request?
We offer same-day service for most AC repair requests in Houston and the surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians understand that a broken air conditioner in Houston’s heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous. We prioritize emergency calls and typically arrive within hours of your initial contact. For urgent situations, our 24/7 emergency service ensures you’re never left without cooling.
3. How much does AC repair typically cost in Houston?
AC repair costs vary depending on the issue, ranging from simple fixes like thermostat adjustments ($75-$150) to more complex repairs like compressor replacement ($1,200-$2,500). At 75 Degree AC, we provide transparent, upfront pricing with free estimates before any work begins. Our technicians will diagnose the problem and explain your options clearly, so you know exactly what you’re paying for with no hidden fees or surprises.
4. Is it better to repair or replace my old AC unit?
If your AC system is over 10-15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new system’s value, replacement is usually more cost-effective. Newer systems are significantly more energy-efficient, which can lower your utility bills by 20-40%. Our Houston HVAC experts at 75 Degree AC will assess your system honestly and help you make the best decision for your budget and long-term comfort needs.
5. Can a dirty air filter really cause my AC to stop working?
Yes, absolutely! A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of AC failure in Houston homes. When airflow is restricted, your system has to work harder, which can cause the evaporator coils to freeze and the system to shut down. We recommend changing filters every 1-3 months, especially during Houston’s long cooling season. Regular filter changes can prevent costly repairs and extend your AC’s lifespan significantly.
AC Installation & System Replacement FAQs
1. How long does a new AC installation take in Houston?
Most residential AC installations take between 4-8 hours for a complete system replacement. For new construction or complex installations, it may take 1-2 days. At 75 Degree AC, our licensed technicians work efficiently to minimize disruption to your home. We’ll remove your old equipment, install the new system, test all components thoroughly, and ensure everything is working perfectly before we leave your property.
2. What size AC unit do I need for my Houston home?
Proper AC sizing depends on multiple factors including your home’s square footage, insulation quality, ceiling height, number of windows, and Houston’s specific climate conditions. An oversized unit cycles on and off too frequently, while an undersized unit runs constantly without cooling effectively. Our technicians perform detailed load calculations to determine the perfect size, ensuring optimal efficiency, comfort, and longevity for your investment.
3. Which AC brands does 75 Degree AC install and recommend?
We install all major AC brands including Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Goodman, Rheem, American Standard, and Daikin. Each brand offers different features and price points to match your needs and budget. Our team will help you select a reliable, energy-efficient system that’s perfect for Houston’s climate. We only recommend equipment we’d install in our own homes, ensuring you get the best value and performance.
4. Are there financing options available for new AC installation?
Yes, 75 Degree AC offers flexible financing options to make your new AC system affordable. We work with multiple lenders to provide payment plans with competitive rates and terms to fit various budgets. You don’t have to suffer through Houston’s heat because of upfront costs, ask our team about current financing promotions and options when you call (713) 598-2737 for your free consultation.
5. How much can a new energy-efficient AC system save on my energy bills?
Modern energy-efficient AC systems can reduce your cooling costs by 20-50% compared to older units. In Houston, where air conditioning accounts for 50-70% of summer energy bills, upgrading to a high-efficiency system (16+ SEER rating) can save you $500-$1,500 annually. The savings often offset the installation cost within 5-10 years, and you’ll enjoy improved comfort, quieter operation, and better indoor air quality throughout the system’s 15-20 year lifespan.
HVAC Maintenance & Tune-Ups FAQs
1. How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance in Houston?
We recommend scheduling professional HVAC maintenance twice yearly, once in spring before the cooling season and once in fall before heating season. In Houston’s extreme climate, regular maintenance is essential to prevent unexpected breakdowns during the hottest and coldest months. 75 Degree AC offers convenient maintenance plans that include priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and comprehensive system inspections to keep your equipment running efficiently year-round.
2. What's included in a 75 Degree AC tune-up service?
Our comprehensive tune-up includes cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting and cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, testing thermostat calibration, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, inspecting ductwork for leaks, measuring airflow, and testing system performance. We also identify potential problems before they become expensive repairs. Regular tune-ups improve efficiency by 15-25%, extend equipment life, and help maintain your manufacturer’s warranty requirements.
3. Can regular maintenance really prevent AC breakdowns?
Yes! Studies show that 95% of HVAC breakdowns could be prevented with regular professional maintenance. During tune-ups, our technicians identify and fix small issues before they cause system failures. In Houston’s demanding climate, preventive maintenance is especially important, it reduces the risk of breakdowns during extreme heat by up to 95%, saves money on emergency repairs, and keeps your system running efficiently when you need it most.
4. What's the difference between a maintenance visit and a repair call?
Maintenance is preventive care performed on a working system to keep it running efficiently and catch problems early. A repair call addresses specific issues when your system isn’t working properly. Think of maintenance like regular oil changes for your car, it prevents problems. Repairs are like fixing a breakdown. Maintenance visits cost less ($89-$150) than repairs ($150-$2,500+) and help you avoid expensive emergency service calls at inconvenient times.
5. Do I really need HVAC maintenance if my system seems to be working fine?
Absolutely! Just because your system is running doesn’t mean it’s running efficiently or safely. Hidden problems like refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, electrical issues, or worn components can reduce efficiency by 25% without obvious symptoms. Regular maintenance by 75 Degree AC catches these issues early, reduces your energy bills, extends your system’s lifespan by 5-10 years, and ensures safe operation, particularly important for gas furnaces and carbon monoxide safety.
Commercial HVAC Services FAQs
1. Does 75 Degree AC service commercial properties in Houston?
Yes! We provide comprehensive commercial HVAC services throughout Houston and surrounding areas for offices, retail stores, restaurants, warehouses, and other commercial properties. Our commercial technicians understand the unique demands of business environments and work efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations. We offer flexible scheduling, including after-hours and weekend service, to ensure your business maintains comfortable temperatures for employees and customers without interrupting your business hours.
2. What makes commercial HVAC service different from residential?
Commercial systems are typically larger, more complex, and require specialized knowledge and equipment. They often include multiple zones, rooftop units, larger capacity equipment, and more sophisticated controls. Commercial properties also need faster response times since HVAC issues can affect employee productivity and customer comfort. At 75 Degree AC, our commercial technicians have specific training and experience with commercial equipment, and we understand the importance of keeping your business operational.
3. Can 75 Degree AC create a customized maintenance plan for my business?
Absolutely! We develop tailored preventive maintenance programs based on your specific equipment, usage patterns, and budget. Commercial maintenance plans include regularly scheduled service visits, priority emergency response, detailed service reports, and discounted repair rates. Regular commercial HVAC maintenance reduces energy costs by 15-30%, minimizes unexpected downtime, extends equipment life, and helps you budget for HVAC expenses. Contact us to discuss your business needs.
4. How quickly can you respond to commercial HVAC emergencies?
We understand that commercial HVAC emergencies require immediate attention. 75 Degree AC offers priority response for commercial clients with maintenance agreements, typically arriving within 2-4 hours for emergency calls. We’re available 24/7 because we know that even a few hours without proper heating or cooling can impact your business operations, employee productivity, and customer satisfaction. Our trucks are fully stocked to handle most repairs on the first visit.
5. What types of commercial HVAC systems does 75 Degree AC service?
We service all types of commercial HVAC equipment including rooftop units (RTUs), split systems, package units, chillers, boilers, VRF/VRV systems, heat pumps, and building management systems. Our technicians are experienced with all major commercial brands and can handle everything from small retail spaces to large industrial facilities. Whether you need installation, repair, replacement, or maintenance, our commercial team has the expertise to keep your business comfortable year-round.
Air Duct Cleaning Services FAQs
1. How often should air ducts be cleaned in Houston homes?
According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), residential air ducts should be professionally cleaned every 3-5 years under normal conditions. However, Houston homes may need more frequent cleaning if you have pets, family members with allergies or asthma, recent renovations, visible mold growth, or excessive dust accumulation. Regular duct cleaning improves indoor air quality, increases HVAC efficiency, and creates a healthier living environment for your family.
2. What are the signs that my air ducts need cleaning?
Watch for these indicators: visible dust and debris around vents, musty or moldy odors when the HVAC runs, increased dust on furniture despite regular cleaning, uneven heating or cooling between rooms, higher energy bills without explanation, and allergy symptoms that worsen indoors. If you notice any of these signs, 75 Degree AC can inspect your ductwork and determine if professional cleaning is necessary to restore your system’s efficiency and your home’s air quality.
3. Will air duct cleaning really improve my home's air quality?
Yes! The EPA states that indoor air can be up to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air. Your ductwork can harbor dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants that circulate throughout your home every time your HVAC runs. Professional air duct cleaning removes these pollutants, significantly improving indoor air quality. This is especially beneficial for Houston residents with allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions, helping reduce symptoms and create a healthier home environment.
4. How long does the air duct cleaning process take?
For a typical Houston home, professional air duct cleaning takes 2-4 hours depending on your system’s size and complexity. 75 Degree AC uses powerful truck-mounted equipment and follows NADCA standards for thorough cleaning. Our technicians clean supply and return ducts, registers, grilles, diffusers, and the air handler unit. We work efficiently while ensuring comprehensive cleaning, and we’ll protect your home with drop cloths and leave everything clean when we’re finished.
5. Is air duct cleaning worth the investment?
Absolutely! Professional duct cleaning provides multiple benefits that justify the investment. Your HVAC system operates more efficiently (reducing energy costs by 15-25%), your home stays cleaner with less dust, your equipment lasts longer, and most importantly, your family breathes healthier air. Research shows that a buildup of just 0.042 inches of dirt can decrease HVAC efficiency by 21%. For Houston families, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues, cleaner ducts mean better health and comfort.
Indoor Air Quality Solutions FAQs
1. Why is indoor air quality important for Houston homes?
Indoor air quality directly affects your health, comfort, and wellbeing. Most people spend 90% of their time indoors, and poor air quality can trigger allergies, asthma, headaches, fatigue, and respiratory problems. Houston’s humidity also creates ideal conditions for mold, bacteria, and dust mites. 75 Degree AC offers comprehensive indoor air quality solutions including air purifiers, UV lights, HEPA filtration, humidity control, and ventilation improvements to create a healthier home environment.
2. What indoor air quality products does 75 Degree AC recommend?
We offer several effective solutions: air purifiers that remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, UV light systems that eliminate mold and bacteria, HEPA filters for superior filtration, whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers for optimal humidity control (30-50%), and advanced ventilation systems for fresh air circulation. Our experts assess your specific concerns, allergies, odors, humidity issues, and recommend the most effective solutions for your home and budget.
3. How do UV lights improve indoor air quality?
UV (ultraviolet) lights installed in your HVAC system kill mold, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that grow on cooling coils and in ductwork. These biological contaminants can cause health problems and unpleasant odors. UV lights work continuously, providing 24/7 protection by destroying these organisms at the cellular level as air passes through your system. They’re especially effective in humid climates like Houston where biological growth thrives, and they require minimal maintenance, just annual bulb replacement.
4. Can improving indoor air quality really help with allergies and asthma?
Yes, significantly! Medical professionals often recommend improved indoor air quality as part of allergy and asthma management. High-quality air filtration removes allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites that trigger symptoms. Proper humidity control prevents mold growth, and UV lights eliminate airborne pathogens. Many Houston homeowners report dramatic improvement in allergy and asthma symptoms after installing whole-home air quality solutions from 75 Degree AC, leading to better sleep, reduced medication needs, and improved quality of life.
5. How much do indoor air quality improvements cost?
Costs vary depending on the solution: upgraded air filters ($50-$200), portable air purifiers ($200-$800), whole-home air purifiers ($1,000-$2,500), UV light systems ($400-$1,200), and humidifier/dehumidifier systems ($500-$2,000). While there’s an initial investment, the benefits—improved health, reduced allergy medications, better HVAC efficiency, and enhanced comfort—provide long-term value. 75 Degree AC offers free consultations to assess your needs and provide customized recommendations that fit your budget.
Emergency HVAC Repairs FAQs
1. What constitutes an HVAC emergency in Houston?
HVAC emergencies include complete system failure during extreme heat or cold, no heating in winter when temperatures drop below freezing, refrigerant leaks, electrical issues or burning smells, strange noises indicating mechanical failure, water leaks that could cause property damage, and carbon monoxide detector alarms. In Houston’s climate, a broken AC during summer heat waves can be dangerous, especially for children, elderly residents, or those with health conditions. Call 75 Degree AC immediately at (713) 598-2737 for 24/7 emergency service.
2. Is 75 Degree AC available for emergency repairs outside business hours?
Yes! We provide 24/7 emergency HVAC service throughout Houston and surrounding areas, including nights, weekends, and holidays. We understand that HVAC emergencies don’t follow a schedule—they often happen at the worst possible times. Our emergency technicians are on call around the clock, ready to respond quickly to restore your comfort and safety. We arrive with fully-stocked service vehicles equipped to handle most repairs on the first visit, getting your system back up and running as quickly as possible.
3. How quickly can 75 Degree AC respond to emergency calls?
For most emergency situations in our Houston service area, our technicians typically arrive within 1-3 hours of your call. We prioritize emergency calls based on severity and safety concerns, with same-day service guaranteed for urgent situations. During extreme weather events when call volumes are high, response times may be slightly longer, but we communicate clearly about expected arrival times and keep you informed throughout the process.
4. Are emergency HVAC repairs more expensive than regular service?
Emergency HVAC repairs may include after-hours service fees, but 75 Degree AC believes in transparent, fair pricing even during emergencies. We provide upfront estimates before beginning work, even for emergency calls. While emergency service may cost slightly more than regular business hours, we never take advantage of your urgent situation. Our goal is to restore your comfort quickly and affordably. Many customers find that emergency service actually saves money by preventing further damage from delayed repairs.
5. What should I do while waiting for emergency HVAC service?
For AC emergencies during summer heat: stay hydrated, close blinds and curtains to block heat, use fans for air circulation, and move to the coolest room in your house. If you have vulnerable family members (elderly, young children, or those with health conditions), consider temporary relocation to a cooler environment. For heating emergencies in winter: dress in layers, close doors to unused rooms, use safe supplemental heating if available, and never use gas ovens or outdoor equipment for indoor heating. Never attempt DIY repairs on electrical or gas components, wait for our professional technicians.